Anonymous Call Led to Recovery of a Tractor Stolen from a Farm in Sunflower County
Photo: This week, the Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau recovered a 5303 John Deere tractor in Attala County that was originally stolen from an aquaculture farm in Sunflower County. (Courtesy photo)
The Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau (MALTB) has recovered a John Deere tractor in Attala County that was originally stolen from an aquaculture farm in Sunflower County.
On April 30, 2024, the Sunflower County Sheriff’s Office took a report of a stolen model 5303 John Deere tractor that was used on an aquaculture farm in Indianola. MALTB investigators were asked to assist. On Jan. 14, an anonymous caller provided information regarding this investigation. Based on that information, the tractor was located and recovered in a wooded area in Attala County. This is an open and ongoing investigation.
MALTB Director Dean Barnard commended his investigators and the Sunflower County Sheriff’s Office for their work in recovering stolen agricultural assets. “The theft of agricultural equipment, as well as livestock and timber, is detrimental to our farmers and producers. That is their livelihood, and the tools they use every day to provide for all Mississippians,” said Barnard. “So, our investigators are dedicated to protecting and serving Mississippi’s agriculture community.”
“And I want to thank the citizen who aided in this case. Investigations are often solved with the help of the public and I encourage anyone who has information regarding an agricultural crime to call our office or your local law enforcement agency,” continued Barnard.
Report suspicious activity you see to any of the following agencies: The Mississippi Agriculture & Livestock Theft Bureau by calling 1-800-678-2660, Your local Law Enforcement or Central Mississippi Crime Stoppers by calling 601-355-TIPS (8477). All calls remain anonymous, and you could be eligible for a reward upon arrest and conviction.
The Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau, the law enforcement division of the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, enforces state laws pertaining to the theft of cattle, horses, swine, poultry, fish, farm equipment, chemicals, timber and all other farm or agriculture-related crimes. Visit http://msagtheft.org/ to learn more about the MALTB.
